This cased medal, engraved on the reverse with the names 'Jean Richer' and 'Camille Villedieu', is a piece of social history, unique to France, as far as I know. It is silver gilt (marked 'argent'), in its original case, and engraved round the edge with the date 'le 5 Fevrier 1877'.
In relief on the obverse, there are the words 'fidelite' and 'bonheur' and an image of a loving couple plighting their troth at a classical altar. Traditionally, in French bourgeois circles or possibly prosperous peasantry, these would have been handed out to the guests on the big day.
The diameter of the medal is just under 4cm and that of the box 5cm. The medal's condition is near EF and it retains virtually all of its original gilt finish. The box is red leather on wood, with a rather faded blue silk lining, and generally shows its age, though it is still in reasonable shape.
If you want to comment on this item—re quality, age, etc—please email me.
[Militaria : Medals : French : 19th Century]
|
![online Militaria dealer - Antique-Militaria [UK]](/images/antique-militaria.jpg)
Antique Militaria Home
Site map
Historic comments
MAGNIFY